How To: (Respectfully) Shave Your Mustache

You put a lot of care and effort into growing and grooming that glorious soup sifter. So when the time comes to send it off (post-Movember, for example), make sure you do it with the spirit and solemnity your ‘stache deserves. We’re not saying you have to collect the follicles in your palm and hold a burning raft Viking funeral for them (though, as this awesome video demonstrates, it’s pretty great when someone does that). But the goodbye shave should be conducted with care, dignity, and respect. Here are a few tips.

Before

*Give your decision long and careful consideration, but don’t even think about snipping it in front of other humans. Block off some mirror time and have a conversation with your mustache. After meditating on it, make your decision.
* Before you part ways with your ‘stache, have one more wild night together. Hopefully one that includes a long and passionate kiss.

The Shave

* Don’t lather up and take a razor directly to your upper lip. First, buzz or snip it down to a shave-able length with a beard trimmer or a pair of scissors.
* Once you get your mustache down to a proper shaving length, soften up the stubble with a hot towel.
* Apply a preshave oil to soften the stubble and assist with razor glide.
* Lay down a generous amount of a sturdy shave cream atop the preshave base.
* Using a disposable razor is akin to breaking up with your ‘stache via text message. We recommend shaving with the grain using a balanced razor with a weighted handle. An old-school safety razor shows an extra degree of respect.
* Rinse your upper lip with cold water and follow with a healthy application of postshave balm.

After

* A word of caution: You will miss the ‘stache as soon as it’s gone. You’ll be hankering for a rebound ‘stache. Out of respect to the departed, wait a little while to start a new one.

For more tips, tools, and helpful advice on growing a glorious 'stache, check out our Movember hub.